Mr. Feargal Ó Coigligh:

I will answer the second question first. The "arm's length" principle, in particular the independence of the Arts Council in decision making, is in relation to its functions as a funding body. The legislation sets out clearly that the appointment of a director is a matter for the board, subject to the consent of the Minister for public expenditure and reform. That is a typical type of measure. The Minister exercised this function in the manner he deemed fit in the circumstances. That is the way these things operate.

Regarding the governance review, that is now under way and is being led by Professor Brennan, accompanied by Mr. John McCarthy, former Secretary General in the Department of housing and Dr. Margaret Cullen. The Department is assisting that review in terms of the secretariat. I understand that the work is well advanced but it is being read independently. I know they have engaged with a lot of people within the Arts Council, the sector and the Department. I expect they will report back in the autumn with recommendations, which I think will be interesting for all of us to read.